Turks and Caicos

About the Flag

The Turks and Caicos Islands comprise a dependent territory of the United Kingdom located in the Caribbean Sea southeast of The Bahamas. The islands are peaks of an underwater mountain chain often called the Caribbean Andes. The capital city is Grand Turk, and English is the official language. The English Queen represented by a local Governor is the Chief of State. Following an investigation into allegations of widespread corruption and misconduct within the Turks and Caicos Government, the UK foreign minister directed the governor to bring into effect on 14 August 2009 an Order in Council suspending Ministerial government and the House of Assembly, and imposing direct rule pending completion of reform milestones.

The economy is based on fishing, tourism, and offshore banking. Only subsistence farming exists on the Caicos Islands, so most foods as well as nonfood products must be imported. Lobster, conch and shells are the main exports. Principal trading partners are the United Kingdom and the United States. The currency is the US dollar. The tropical climate and scenic beauty have contributed to the nation’s popularity as a vacation destination.

Vessels registered in Turks and Caicos are considered to be British ships and are entitled to fly the Red Ensign. The Registrar General is the Registrar of British Ships in the islands, and ship registration is administered in accordance with the UK Merchant Shipping Acts 1894 to 1967. Turks and Caicos concentrates primarily on the registration of pleasure yachts. An Offshore Finance Center Unit of the government services international business needs.

Turks & Caicos Islands are members of the British Red Ensign Group and operate as a Category Two Red Ensign (British) Registry.